In a powerful testament to his enduring cultural impact, 21 Savage has been named one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” of 2024. The British-born, Atlanta-raised rap superstar received a heartfelt tribute from his friend and fellow musical titan Burna Boy, who eloquently captured 21’s authentic artistry and remarkable personal journey.
“I trust my gut when it comes to my music and collaborations, and I find myself naturally drawn to artists like 21 Savage—those who remain grounded in their convictions and consistently defy the limitations imposed upon them,” Burna Boy wrote in his laudatory essay. “Like 21, I know what it’s like to rise above challenging beginnings, and it makes his success all that much more remarkable.”
Burna highlighted how 21 Savage’s latest album, “American Dream,” opens with his mother reflecting on their powerful immigration story, exemplifying the deeply personal nature of his work. “Throughout his work…21 maintains an authenticity that resonates deeply,” he praised.
The Nigerian star went on to commend his collaborator’s skilled versatility: “His approach to rap is refreshingly genuine; he speaks to us in a relatable way, effortlessly navigating the complexities of the genre. Whether he tackles weighty subjects or offers moments of levity, his delivery remains compelling.”
For 21 Savage, being named to the prestigious Time 100 list represents the culmination of a transformative couple of years. In 2023, he joined Drake as a special guest on the rap titan’s blockbuster “It’s All A Blur Tour,” performing for thousands of fans across the globe.
Then, in January, he released his highly-anticipated fourth studio album, “American Dream,” to massive critical acclaim. The deeply personal project, exploring themes of immigration, identity and the contemporary Black experience, debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 with 133,000 equivalent album units.
The album’s rawly emotional content and 21’s vivid storytelling showcased his continued evolution as an artist unafraid to confront weighty subjects head-on. From immigrant struggles to systemic racism to surviving gun violence, no topic was off-limits as he cemented himself as the voice of a new generation of socially conscious artists.
As Burna Boy noted, he recently had “the privilege of sharing one of my most significant milestones with 21, performing with him at the Grammys.” It was a full-circle moment for the rapper, who, over a decade ago, was applying for entry-level jobs just to make ends meet.
Now, having achieved global superstardom while remaining profoundly introspective and authentic to his roots, 21 Savage’s inclusion among Time’s most influential figures feels both well-deserved and culturally significant. His raw, confessional talent has solidified him as this era’s preeminent narrator of the modern African diaspora experience.